The capture of German Tiger 131 in Tunisia

The capture of German Tiger tank 131 in North Africa is a fascinating story. In April 1943, during the Tunisian campaign of World War II, the tank was part of the Schwere Panzer-Abteilung 504, a German heavy tank battalion.

On April 24, 1943, Tiger 131 was captured by the British Army's 142nd Battalion RAC and the 2nd Sherwood Foresters on Point 174, a location between Medjez el Bab and Montarnaud in Tunisia. The tank had been disabled by a lucky shot from a Churchill tank, which jammed its turret.

The abandoned Tiger 131 in Tunisia (IWM)

The capture of Tiger 131 was significant as it was the first intact Tiger tank to fall into Allied hands. The tank was later transported to England, where it was subjected to extensive testing and evaluation.

Today, Tiger 131 is on display at The Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset, England, and is the only operational Tiger I tank in the world ¹. Its capture and preservation provide a unique insight into the design and technology of German heavy tanks during World War II.

The Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset, England, is one of the world's leading tank museums. With over 300 tanks, the museum showcases the history of armored warfare from World War I to the present day. Exhibits include the world's first tank, the Mark I, and the only working Tiger I tank, as well as interactive displays and immersive experiences. The museum also hosts annual events, such as Tankfest, which features live tank demonstrations and reenactments.

The German Tiger I tank, officially known as the Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf. E, was a heavy tank used during World War II. Here are its specifications:

Tiger 1 General Characteristics:

- Crew: 5 (commander, gunner, loader, driver, radio operator)

- Length: 8.45 meters (27.7 feet)

- Width: 3.70 meters (12.1 feet)

- Height: 3.00 meters (9.8 feet)

- Ground clearance: 0.47 meters (1.5 feet)

Armament:

- Main gun: 8.8 cm KwK 36 L/56 (88mm)

- Secondary armament: 2 x 7.92 mm MG 34 machine guns

- Ammunition: 92 rounds (88mm), 4,500 rounds (7.92mm)

Mobility:

- Engine: Maybach HL 210 P45, 12-cylinder, 650 horsepower

- Top speed: 38 km/h (23.6 mph)

- Range: 100 km (62 miles)

- Suspension: Torsion bar suspension

Armor:

- Frontal armor: 100 mm (3.9 inches) @ 40°

- Side armor: 60 mm (2.4 inches) @ 25°

- Rear armor: 80 mm (3.2 inches) @ 25°

- Top armor: 40 mm (1.6 inches)

Weight:

- Combat weight: approximately 54-56 tons

The Tiger I was a formidable opponent on the battlefield, with its powerful 88mm gun and thick armor making it nearly invulnerable to enemy fire. However, its weight and size made it difficult to transport and maneuver, and its high fuel consumption limited its range.

Main Image: Massimo Foti